General Info

The outfitter for the Chile: Estancia to Estancia & Patagonia Glacier Treks was the first to offer long riding trips in the Torres del Paine area. The innovative itineraries, quality guides, and years of experience make this one of the most unforgettable riding trips in the world.

Torres del Paine is one the world's most spectacular national parks. An unrivalled landscape of mad jagged peaks, impossibly blue lakes, deserted pampas and iceberg-loaded rivers, it has at its center, the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, a sea of ice the size of Hawaii. In fact, this is one of the largest sources of temperate-zone glaciers in the world. The gateway to Torres del Paine is Puerto Natales, a waterside town the the South, and your base for horse riding Patagonia.

With coastlines stretching along both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, Torres del Paine is home to immense empty grasslands, ancient forests, freshwater lakes, salmon-filled streams, fjords, glacial valleys, volcanoes and of course the jagged peaks of the Andes Mountains, the longest and youngest mountain range in the world.

There are 7 different options for Chile horseback riding adventures. The Glacier Horse Ride introduces riders to the jaw droppingly beautiful scenery in southern Chile and Torres del Paine and offers exciting and fast paced riding expeditions on fit Criollo horses. The Estancia Ride offers a more comfortable version of this camping ride in addition to some shorter taster riding trips both in the south and other parts of Chile. There are also other adventure trips available, offering everything from yoga to whale watching. Riding highlights include cantering eight riders abreast on soft grassy pampas with the wind in your face on your trusted Criollo horse. The scenery is a back drop of breath taking mountain peaks, fast flowing glacial rivers, turquoise lakes and icebergs. Much deserved lunchtime breaks are picnics in hidden valleys, protected old growth forests, and in the shadow of imposing glaciers. At the end of the day, take a hot bath and enjoy a fireside pisco sour in the company of your local host.

When To Go
Most people visit the Chilean Patagonia in the southern-hemisphere summer between November and March, however, the rest of the year should not be ruled out and custom trips can be arranged at any time of year for horseback riding in Chile. Spring (September to October) can be a great time to take advantage of quiet trails, spring flowers and some fairly mild weather. Autumn too has the advantages of fewer people and occasionally less wind. Weather can start getting colder at night but as many hotels and refugios remain open during April this should not be too much of a problem. Winter is a beautiful time to visit and some of the hotels are open all year. Days are of course colder and much shorter but the wildlife can be plentiful and the days crisp, clear and windless. Winter snow is common, especially at higher elevations. Santiago offers some great skiing destinations in winter too.

Awards & Accolades

Featured in The Sunday Times, The Irish Times, the Evening Standard, Oxygen TV (US cable station), GQ Magazine, Trail Magazine, Le Figaro and Endurance Magazine.

Hosted the IMAX film crew in March 2005 for the filming of their production: Ride around the World

Packing

Packing for Horse Riding Chile

NOTE, where porters are provided they will carry a weight limit of approximately 15 kg. It is unusual for clients to have to pack more than 2 or 3 days clothing in bags to be carried by porters so it is sufficient for the needs of the trip (including sleeping bag and mat).

Torres del Paine has a milder and drier microclimate than the surrounding areas of Patagonia because of some unique geological features. The weather however is famously unpredictable and it is possible to experience four seasons in the course of a few hours! Temperatures can drop to zero at night and high winds are common in this area. Although you can never be sure of how Paine will treat its guests, we ask that travelers are prepared (both mentally and physically) for unpredictable and sometimes challenging weather conditions and that you pack accordingly. Good water proof gear (top to toe) is essential.

Helmets for riding trips: This outfitter can provide helmets, but they do not have an extensive stock. If you'd like to borrow a helmet while in Chile, please let us know your size, so we can check to make sure it's available for you.

Do not leave the house without......
* Passport (check expiry date)
* Money (debit/credit cards - note some banks require advance notice of travel)
* Local currency (US Dollars can be easily exchanged in Chile, sterling/Euros much harder) * Airline tickets or booking codes
* Emergency phone numbers for your travel insurance, local operator and booking agent

CAMPING TRIPS
What’s provided?
* Cooking and eating utensils
* Stove and fuel
* First aid kit
* Tents (normally Eureka and North Face dome style tents) * Kitchen or Dining tent
* Tables/chairs etc
* Food and limited wine (meals prepared by our camp chef)

What’s not provided?
* Sleeping bag with stuff sack (preferably rated 0 or -18, for everything you need to know about buying sleeping bags click here: http://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/expert-advice/sleeping-bag-guide).
* Sleeping pad: Therm-A-Rest® or similar for comfort and insulation
**We can rent sleeping bags and mats on request at $10 per night for a bag and $5 per night for a mat (for clients wanting to rent these, we recommend they bring a sleeping liner, available in cotton, silk or fleece).
**Note sleeping bags are also required in refugios.

GENERAL
What bags do I need to bring?
* Soft holdalls or duffel bags are preferable to hard cases with wheels
* Bring a day pack for your personal items while hiking (camera, water bottle etc) *On riding trips you will be provided with a saddle bag for this purpose
* Luggage tags so your bag is easily recognizable

What clothes/gear should I bring on my trip?
* A few lightweight, easily washable items (layering is always best)
* Midweight fleece or wool sweater
* Midweight fleece or sweat pants
* Hiking pants, lightweight, synthetic and loose fitting (those that convert to shorts can be useful) * Shorts for warmer days
* Long sleeved shirts or or long tees for layering - always choose a synthetic layer close to the skin * T-shirts, again for layering - choose a synthetic, breathable layer close to the skin
* Underwear
* Hiking socks and liners are good to help prevent blisters
* Cotton socks for travelling etc
* Woollen hat for warmth during chilly evenings or cold days
* Set of thermals for cool nights
* Scarf or neck warmer for windy days
* Sun hat or visor to protect from the sun
* Waterproof, windproof (gortex is best) outer rain proof layer (full rain proof not just shower proof)
* Waterproof trousers/pants (again gortex is best although can be expensive so not essential)
* Insulated warm jacket, down or similar is best and they pack up very small and light
* Sturdy, well broken in, ankle supporting, waterproof hiking boots with good tread
* Comfortable shoes for travel and around camp
* Warm fleece or nylon gloves

What clothes should I bring on my riding trip?
Riders should also bring:
* Two pairs of riding trousers or jeans with chaps (in place of hiking trousers/shorts)
* Pair of insulating and quick-drying riding gloves
* Riding helmet: **We strongly recommend riders bring their own BHS/ISO approved hard hat. Hard hats save lives and can prevent a serious head injury. Riders who do not wear a helmet do so at their own risk and may be asked to sign a waiver.
* Three pairs of socks (including a couple of knee-high pairs for riding)
* Jogbra or other suitable support for lady riders
* Riding boots (well broken in) or ankle-high multi-purpose boots which work well when worn with half chaps and can comfortably be worn for walking too
* Waterproof and windproof riding jacket in place of hiking jacket (Gortex or other suitable fabric) with a hood and no leaks. Some clients wear long or short Australian stock coats.
* Waterproof trousers (make sure they have an under-foot stirrup to stop them riding up the leg)
**Riders should also bring spare plastic bags for storing non-waterproof items such as cameras, binoculars etc in the saddle bags. These are made of tough hessian and will not repel heavy rain.

What else do I need?
One litre water bottle
Torch (flashlight) - even in estancias and refugios, the generator gets switched off at night Sunglasses and retainer strap
Sun block and lip balm
Toiletries (ladies should bring tampons as they are impossible to find in the park)
Small washcloth
Antiseptic wipes or hand sanitizer gel
Any personal medication
Insect repellent
Trekking poles (if required, these are hard to find locally)
Travel alarm
Camera and charger, memory card, batteries
Electrical adapter plug (Chile uses a 2-pin 220 volt outlet)
Spare contact lenses or glasses if necessary
Other nice-to-have’s depending on space.
Spanish phrasebook or dictionary Swiss army knife
Small camping pillow
Small binoculars
Ear plugs if you are a light sleeper (recommended for refugios) Reading and writing materials
Ziplock plastic bags (always seem to come in useful)
Gaiters, ankle high for hiking
Swimsuit (for the hardy or if you are planning on stopping over) Light sticks, great for travelling with kids

Equipment/Luggage: A suggested list of what to bring is given below. On our Camping trips clients are required to bring a sleeping bag and sleeping pad/mat. Sleeping bags are also required in refugios. The sleeping bag should be 3 or 4 season and should be carried in an effective stuff sack. We can rent sleeping bags and mats to guests and you should indicate this at the time of booking. For those clients renting a sleeping bag, we recommend you bring a sleeping bag inner (available in silk, cotton and fleece) for your comfort and hygiene.

NOTE: for clients who prefer a nice, thick, padded Thermorest mat, we strongly advise them to bring your own as they are hard to get locally and our supplies are limited. The same goes for sleeping bags – we buy the best quality we can but if your client has indicated to you that they tend to feel the cold, they should buy one of their own and bring it down – we will consider buying it from them if they do not want to carry it back! Ear plugs are also recommended for light sleepers as on windy nights, the tent can get noisy.

Waterproof stuff sacks are supplied to each client for the duration of the trip (the size of an average 60 litre backpack/ 3,200 cubic inches and is sufficient for the demands of the trip). This enables clients’ belongings to be packed comfortable, safely and drily onto the pack horses. Excess luggage not required for the trip can be stored either at the client’s hotel in Punta Arenas or with us in Puerto Natales.

Note on luggage: Please note that whilst we will transport what we consider is a reasonable amount of luggage on pack horses, boats etc carried by clients, we cannot be responsible for any extra costs due to clients carrying excessive luggage. The Guide will make an assessment of the luggage carried by clients during the trip briefing and if he/she feels there is an excessive amount, will advise them as to alternatives (such as leaving some of it at our offices in Natales). For clients who do not wish to leave some of the luggage behind, we will reserve extra pack horses and will advise them locally of the extra cost for this. On some trips (such as the Circuit Hike) the guide will provide bags for repacking a small amount of clothes for hiking the Pass with the rest of their luggage joining them later. *See notes on maximum weight for porters above (15 kg). Full details available on request.

Useful items
A Spanish phrasebook or dictionary, travel alarm clock, Swiss army knife, small camping pillow, fleece, silk or cotton sleeping bag liner (recommended if renting a sleeping bag), travel wipes, tissues, tracksuit trousers or comfortable walking trousers for optional hikes and for relaxing at camp or hotel, reading material, swimsuit (for the hardy), lanterns or light sticks when travelling with children.

Laundry is usually available on the Estancia Ride. For the Glacier Ride this needs to be taken care of before / after the trip in Puerto Natales.

Please also refer to the Equitrekking Travel’s General Packing List.

About the Horses

The horses are Criollo-cross and vary in size with the majority being between 14.0 and 15.2 hands. Descendants of the Spanish Barb and Arab, the Criollo is a sturdy, strong, sure-footed and willing ride. Riders are not responsible for grooming or tack. Horses are checked constantly for injury and/or lameness or tiredness. When necessary (and where it is practical/possible) horses will be changed. Most of you will experience at least one horse change during the course of your riding days.

Tack
The tack is Chilean and comprises of metal framed saddles onto which is a layered felt, sheepskin and leather. The saddles provide adequate comfort for the long riding days and the stirrups consist of a leather cup through which the foot cannot pass. Most of the horses are ridden in simple snaffles. Halters are worn throughout the ride with a rope tied around the horses neck to enable you to tie up at lunch stops/rest stops.

Pace of horse riding in Patagonia
Horses for both experienced riders and those who are a beginner level are available. The pace of the ride is adjusted by the guide to suit the majority of riders but as the groups always travel with more than one horseman, there is flexibility within the group and riders soon find their own pace for the trip. On multi-activity and custom trips, the pace is more flexible and can be slower if required. It is largely dictated by the terrain and the distance that is needed to be traveled on a certain day. Where possible, there is a lot of trotting and cantering during your time horse riding in Patagonia. Distances vary between 12 and 24 miles (20 and 40 kilometres) in a day. Riders on scheduled riding trips need to be experienced and as a general rule, they should be able to control a horse on open ground at the canter and be accustomed to riding outside in open spaces. On multi-activity and custom trips, riders at a beginner level can be accomodated.

Activities/Events

There are many non-riding activities and things to see while on these trips. Visit cute burrowing penguins at the Otway Sound Penguin Colony or enjoy great pisco sours and fireside dining at the very comfortable Estancia Lazo. Witness some of the best sunrises in the Park from the hotel Cabanas del Paine at the Serrano River and enjoy a traditional mate (matay) session with your host baqueanos. Marvel at the miracles of nature as you stand in front of Grey Lake with the huge wall of ice, Glacier Grey, and enjoy an optional boat ride up to the face of this immense towering glacier or visit the beautiful turquoise waters of Laguna Azul where the view of the Towers is simply stunning. It is also possible to arrange a hiking trip for a non-riding partner that follows a similar route to the riders, but it might be better for the couple to arrange their own private trip. Good riding isn’t always good hiking as we're sure you’ll understand. An estancia or hotel-based stay with riding and activities might be preferable.

Trails
Treks in Torres del Paine cross diverse terrain where you will witness stunning scenery. Although gaining in popularity, the Park still receives relatively few (around 80,000) visitors a year. Highlights include tranquil trails through old southern-beech forests; rides (and swims) across brain-chilling glacial rivers; canters across wide-open pampas; dazzlingly beautiful trails around lakes of amazing colors and hikes out to enormous glaciers and iceberg-filled lakes.

Wildlife
Torres del Paine National Park has many distinct ecosystems. Each contains widely different landscapes, which in turn sustain different flora and fauna, some found nowhere else on earth. Patagonia itself has over 40 species of mammal and 100 species of birds. Among these, the protected guanaco, Patagonia's largest land mammal, roams the plains in large breeding groups. Each group comprises a dominant male and a harem of females, each of which gives birth to one chulengo. They make for fascinating watching. The Puma, sometimes called the panther, cougar or mountain lion, also inhabits Torres del Paine in fair numbers. This is the southern-most inhabitant of the 27 recognized puma subspecies and one of the largest. It inhabits huge territories encompassing up to 40 square miles of rocky slopes, forests and open plains. It is a solitary, nocturnal hunter, feeding on small mammals, guanacos and sometimes, sheep owned by local ranchers. It has also been known to attack young or injured horses. The critically endangered huemul deer is known to breed in the southeastern sectors of the park. This small deer is the national symbol of Chile and CONAF considers its conservation a high priority. For this reason, they have closed the Pingo Trail to horses. Other mammals include the Patagonian Grey Fox. It feeds on hares, rodents and occasionally the leftovers of puma kills and can also be seen wandering the campsites in the park looking for scraps and unattended trash bags.

Birds
Some of the world's rarest bird species, with the crested cara cara, and black vulture among them and are found in Torres del Paine National Park. Other bird species include black-necked swans, flamingoes, ibis, pygmy owls, austral parakeets and southern lapwings. Often seen gliding in the huge skies in search of carrion, the Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus) flies as high as 15,000 feet and at speeds of up to 35 miles an hour. An unforgettable sight, it weighs in at 16 pounds, is four feet long and has a massive ten foot wingspan. Finger-like feathers at the end of these huge wings make for precision flying. It nests in rock cavities high in the mountains. Condors are bald-headed and the male condor is black with some white on its wings and a fleshy red or black crest about four inches long. The female has no crest. Young condors have fluffy brown feathers. The largest bird in South America, the ostrich-like flightless Rhea is also frequently seen roaming the grasslands. Grey-brown and white in colour and fast runners, they are sometimes called South American Ostriches. These fascinating animals protect themselves by living in groups.

Accommodations/Food

Estancia Rides

Accomodations/ Food
Accommodations are in comfortable, authentic, and welcoming estancias and lodges that have been chosen for their beautiful locations, great views, and cultural appeal. All the chosen lodges offer authentic Patagonian hospitality, comfortable en-suite rooms, great food, friendly service and incredible and distinctive views.

An Estancia is a farm or ranch that raises either cattle or sheep. The entire area of Patagonia is essentially a number of estancias strung together between the Pacific ocean in the west and the Atlantic ocean in the east. In fact, the Torres del Paine national park was an estancia before it became a National Park.  In fact, the outfitter for the Chile: Estancia to Estancia & Patagonia Glacier Treks has been instrumental in the development of Estancia Tercera for tourism and are still the experts when it comes to this form of agritourism in the area.

After an arrival night in the comfortable Hotel Rey Don Felipe in Punta Arenas you will be driven out across the pampas towards the first estancia, Tres Pasos, just north of Puerto Natales. Take a glimpse at authentic estancia life and ‘home stay’ accommodations at estancias Tercera Barranca and Tres Pasos. Tres Pasos is a great introduction to the Park and it is from here that you ride out to discover the unforgettable landscape and exotic wildlife of Torres Del Paine Park. Tres Pasos is a warm and inviting chalet style house with magical views down its own valley, and pretty gardens. It's restaurant serves locally produced meat and vegetables. There is an atmospheric fireside bar where you can enjoy getting to know one another while being introduced to some authentic Patagonian culture.

Typical of the estancias of the area, Estancia Tercera is a working sheep ranch situated in an enviable position on the Park borders. If offers fantastic views of the granite Towers and mountains of the Paine Massif. In conjunction with local partners, this wonderful authentic estancia house is offered as an alternative to some of the more mainstream Park hotels. If you are seeking a comfortable, peaceful retreat in a unique setting with a true Patagonian feel, this is the place for you.

Meals will be eaten in the restaurant or with a family. Food typically consists of lamb, beef, chicken or salmon with fresh vegetables or salad accompanied by rice or potatoes. Wine and beer is available at a reasonable price throughout the trip. Lunches will be prepared by travelers at breakfast and packed in your saddle bags or day packs. They consist of sandwiches (tuna, cheese, salami, ham, peanut butter etc), fresh fruit, nuts and snacks and biscuits/chocolate. Breakfast includes toast, coffee, cereal, ham/cheese, bread rolls and juice and occasionally eggs. All meals while in the park, excluding wine and beverages, are normally included in the trip price. In hotels, the ‘menu’ consists typically of a soup or salad to start, a main course of beef, chicken or fish and a sweet (usually fruit). In home-stay accommodations, such as Estancia Tercera Barranca, the meal will be a Chilean homecooked meal or an outside gaucho barbeque (asado). Breakfast and packed lunch is included daily during the ride. Meals in Punta Arenas and lunches in Natales on transfer days are generally not included. Vegetarians can be catered for on all trips.

Glaicer/ Camping Rides

Accomodations/ Food
Accommodations are in tents with the exception of arrival and departure nights. The campsites have been chosen with much care and they are all very different, special and beautiful. Some of them are wilderness sites with no ‘facilities’ at all and the only washing facilities are in rivers or lakes. Comfortable 3-man tents, which are roomy and able to withstand the sometimes high winds in the area are used. Accommodation is based on twin-share. Some campsites have inside quinchos (barbeque areas). For those who prefer daily hot showers and a fluffy bed, the Estancia Ride would be more suitable! Guests typically set up their own tents.

Meals are varied and wholesome and include fresh salmon and local fish, pasta, chicken, beef, lamb and some local Chilean meals. Fresh salad is served every night. Local wine is served with dinner and all meals are prepared for guests. You prepare your own lunch at breakfast and carry it with you. The choices consist of sandwiches (e.g. tuna, cheese, ham, peanut butter, salami), fresh fruit, trail mix, chocolate, biscuits, snacks etc. 

Breakfast is normally hot and cold cereals, toast, jams, marmalade, coffee, tea and juice. At times, a cooked breakfast is served. A dining tent is carried for eating meals and cooking although sometimes you may eat in a camp ‘shelter’ or around the campfire, weather permitting. Please note that inside dining is normally available at the following campsites: Laguna Verde, Rio Serrano, Laguna Azul and anywhere a refugio is also present such as: Pehoe, Dickson, Cuernos, Las Torres, Grey, etc. Where possible, vehicle support is arranged. Supplies of bread, salad and fresh fruit are replenished. On arrival at the campsite, wine and canapes are served giving you ample time to relax while the evening meal is being prepared. All meals are included. Wine is also included (generous though necessarily limited supplies!). Meals in Punta Arenas and lunches in Natales on transfer days are generally not included. A dedicated, professional cook is provided for groups of a certain size (varies according to the actual trip).

Laundry is usually available on the Estancia Ride. For the Glacier Ride this needs to be taken care of before/after the trip in Puerto Natales.

A note of interest to vegetarians:
Please note that Patagonia is a culture largely founded on the farming of sheep. Meat, especially lamb, is a staple for most people in the area. On these riding, hiking, and estancia based trips, it is very likely the group will get to enjoy a lamb or meat asado (BBQ) during their trip. While alternative food is available for the non-meat eaters, it might be worth informing vegetarians that they may witness meat being prepared. It can be challenging for vegetarians to travel in what is a very meat based culture.

The Ideal Traveler

Specializing in both scheduled riding tours with small intimate groups of experienced riders and custom departures for couples, families or groups, Chile: Estancia to Estancia & Patagonia Glacier Treks is a riding vacation to suit just about anybody.

The Glacier and Estancia trips are for experienced riders who wish to combine some local flavor and comfortable accommodations with their outdoor riding adventure while enjoying fairly fast paced riding with long days in the saddle. Riders will experience a first hand view of Patagonia estancia life and the joys, threats, and difficulties posed by farming cattle and sheep in this area. The majority of the rides takes place within the park itself and offers plenty of diversity with rides across open pampas, rides to wild glaciers and iceberg-filled lakes, and peaceful rides through valleys and ancient southern beech forests. Throughout these long, exciting days in the saddle, the snow capped mountains are never far away.

Estancia Ride
Clients should be comfortable riding at a fast pace - the horse moving day is fast and long. This riding tour suits experienced riders who wish to combine local culture with comforable accommodations. It is designed for those who prefer not to camp. Accommodation is in comfortable, authentic and welcoming lodges and estancias.

Glacier RIde
This itinerary is suited to lovers of riding and the outdoors and those who like to get ‘off the beaten track’. In the company of guides and Chilean horsemen, you ride into some remote areas where the only access is on foot or horse. Riding days are fast paced and long. Pack horses carry the luggage and you'll often see no other humans. While camping in these areas you can observe the plentiful wildlife, sit and enjoy some traditional mate with the baqueanos (pronounced matay) or find a peaceful spot and just read or relax.

For those that wish a slower pace or those of you who would prefer to ride as a couple or small family group, ask us about a custom trip.

Young and Older Riders
Young riders need to be experienced and accompanied by an experienced adult. Alternatively please ask about the family itineraries for very young riders. Older riders are welcome but may be asked to complete a medical suitability questionnaire

11-Day Estancias

Intermediate - Advanced. This is a fast-paced ride with some very long riding days. Fitness and experience are essential. Not for beginner riders. 

This vacation suits experienced riders who wish to combine local culture and comfortable accommodations with outdoor riding adventures. It is designed for those who prefer not to camp. Young riders need to be experienced and accompanied by an experienced and capable adult. Alternatively please ask about family itineraries for very young riders. Older riders are welcome but may be asked to complete a medical suitability questionnaire. A number of 4 day extensions which can easily be tagged onto the end of a scheduled riding trip. They include 4 day riding, hiking, kayaking, yoga/multisport, whale watching with many others in the pipeline. Please ask for details about family departures. Equitrekking Travel's Preferred Travel Agent may arrange these details for you.

Dates & Rates

11 days/ 10 nights
2012 dates
Oct 20-Oct 30, Nov 23- Dec 3, Dec 7-17, Dec 20-30
2013 dates
Jan 15-25, Jan 29- Feb 8, Feb 24- March 5, March 10-20

Prices
2 pax: $5,639 per person
3 pax: $5,120 per person
4-5 pax: $4,539 per person
6-8 pax: $4,409 per person
9-12 pax: $4,145 per person
*Single supplement add $830 USD*
(please contact us for shorter trips!)

* Prices are subject to change based on currency conversions. 

Group size:
2 – 12 riders

Included:
8 days horseback riding. Accommodation in Estancias - some converted and park lodges; accommodations have been chosen for there beautiful location and unsurpassable views. 10 nights based on twin share (in hotels, hosterias and estancias), transfers to/from Punta Arenas and while in Park, breakfast and lunch every day, dinners stated on itinerary (excluding drinks), lamb asado, English speaking and local guides, baqueanos who care for the horses, waterproof stuff sacks for trip, use of saddle bags, entrance fees to Torres del Paine and the penguin colony.

Not Included:
Flights, airport taxes, airport transfers; meals in Punta Arenas; lunch on Day 2 and Day 10 in Natales; drinks in hotels and estancias; local gratuities (recommend $50).

Extras:
Boat trip to face of Glacier

Riding Ability:
Intermediate - Advanced. This is a fast-paced ride with some very long riding days. Fitness and experience are essential. Not for beginner riders. 

Description:
Experience life as a Patagonian gaucho on this exciting riding expedition in Torres del Paine National Park.  Feast on succulent organic lamb, roasted gaucho style and see burrowing penguins, guanacos, rheas and possibly pumas. Canter your heart out on soft grassy pampas and enjoy a slice of history staying at some beautiful old estancia houses. Sail to the vertical face of an immense valley glacier and ride up to a remote valley in search of wild Criollos. Sip fireside pisco sours and vino tinto while your hosts prepare dinner before you leap soundly ito comfortable beds and notice the silence.

Accommodation: is in comfortable, authentic, cozy and welcoming estancias and lodges - all of which have been chosen for their beautiful location, great view, authenticity and cultural appeal.

Itinerary:

Day 1 / Arrive into Punta Arenas. Transfer to Hosteria Rio Verde (included). Dinner and briefing.
Arrive into Punta Arenas (clients should aim to arrive into Punta Arenas during mid-afternoon on a pre-specified flight to be advised on request. Clients arriving earlier can meet the guide/driver in Punta Arenas. Clients arriving later will need to cover the cost of a transfer to the first night’s estancia). After meeting the guide and BlueGreen driver we will transfer the 40 minutes or so to Estancia Rio Verde, a comfortable, authentic estancia situated close to Skyring Sound and a fitting start to this ride. The hosteria and estancia is owned and run by a charming family who have converted some of their historic estancia buildings into comfortable guest accommodation. Much of the renovation uses imaginatively recycled or locally produced materials and the rooms are all beautifully decorated and distinctive. Food and service are excellent and clients can wander around the small villa to see the buildings making up this working farm.
Dinner included (excluding drinks). Trip briefing during dinner.

Day 2 / Transfer from Rio Verde to small puesto near Estancia Perales. Meet horses. Short ride. Night Perales.
Today we are going to be starting our drive across the wide open pampas and land belonging to some of the huge estancias that farm these wild flat lands. After approximately 3 hours driving, we will arrive in Puerto Natales, the capital of the Ultima Esperanza region of Chile. We will stop in town for a chance to stretch our legs before continuing our drive north past the waters of Last Hope Sound approximately 50 km onto the land belonging to the beautiful Estancia Perales, a remote waterside estancia that farms cattle and sheep.

Arriving at a small puesto, we will meet our horses and the baqueanos from the estancia who will ride with us into our estancia. This short ride will allow us to become accustomed to the local style of riding and tack as we start to take in the spectacular views. Dominated by the high peaks of the Chacabuco mountain range, some of which are permanently covered in snow and ice and with views of Cerro Prat to the rear, this is a very special place and a real contrast to some of the scenery experienced later in the trip. After riding into the estancia, we will be shown our rooms where we can relax and unpack. Plenty of time to explore the waterfront where it is possible to fish for trout or just enjoy the panoramic views across the fjords before dinner. All meals included (excluding wine/drinks).

Day 3 / Take cutter across fjords to Balmaceda. Meet horses for ride to Serrano River. Night Hosteria Rio Serrano.
After breakfast we will be packing up and walking down to the quayside where we will be boarding a boat that will take us into the Bernardo O’Higgins National Park. Shared by the region of Magallanes and Aysen, this is the largest National Park in Chile and one of the five most expansive in the world (over 3 million hectares). With access only via the water, the mountains or the southern ice field itself it remains a remote and pristine corner of our planet. It also contains the third largest mass of ice on earth after Antarctica and Greenland so the climate is
understandably extreme.

We will disembark our boat here and enjoy the stunning views which combine old growth forests of evergreen and deciduous southern beech, fire bushes, and cypresses - a stunning contrast to the snow capped peaks and glaciers in this area.

We will meet our horses before setting out on a beautiful trail through thick forests passing pristine rivers and streams in the shadow of the Chacabuco and Balmaceda range of mountains. A fairly slow ride today gives us the opportunity to find our riding stride while enjoying the dazzling scenery on our route into the Torres del Paine National Park. Towards the end of the trail, we will dismount and swim the horses across the glacial waters of the River Nutria, a beautiful and unusual site. Saddling up on the other side we will enter Torres del Paine riding out onto the wide open pampas upping the pace as we approach our comfortable accommodation for the night, the Hotel Rio Serrano.

This hotel is fairly new offering comfortable accommodation, great views of the Paine Massif, a large living/dining area with log fires and a comfortable bar and good restaurant. For early
risers, it also offers some of the best sunrises in all of Patagonia. Comfortable en suite rooms, fire side bar and restaurant serving a mix of local and international food.
All meals included (excluding wine/drinks).

Day 4 / Ride to Lago and Glacier Grey. Optional boat trip. Ride back to Serrano River. Night Hotel Rio Serrano.
After breakfast we will be meeting our horses and preparing for the fast pampas ride to Grey Lake. Our view will be dominated by the jagged, granite peaks of the Paine massif as we ride out along the Grey River to the largest glacier in the park, Grey Glacier. On reaching the trailhead we will tether our horses and walk out across the swinging footbridge through the forest to Grey Beach. The view that greets us is memorable - the sandy shores of the beach form an almost surreal contrast to the blue of the floating icebergs that have calved off the nearby glacier. Grey Glacier protrudes off the southern ice field and is quite simply a wonder of nature. Measuring 28 km in length and covering a total surface area of 270 square km with its frozen walls of crystalline ice towering almost 35 metres high, it never ceases to impress.

After some time walking along the beach and enjoying our picnic lunch, we will walk back to our waiting horses for the exciting ride back to the Serrano River.

*Note for those who would like to get up closer to the face of this marvel of ice, we can arrange a trip out onto the lake on the Grey II boat. This is an optional excursion available at a cost of approximately US$80 per person.

Return to Hotel Rio Serrano for the night. All meals included (excluding wine/drinks).

Day 5 / Ride the up and over across the heart of the park to Estancia Tercera. Night Tercera.
After a wholesome breakfast in our hotel we will pack up and start our ride eastwards towards the heart of the Park. We will now be riding directly towards the Paine Massif mountain range so the views are dramatic and beautiful. Our trail skirts the southern edge of the mountains on a rarely trodden path as we pass azure and turquoise lakes with the huge granite mountain peaks standing behind. After a picnic lunch taken in one of the pretty valleys we will continue east onto the beautiful soft pampas of the Patagonia steppe. Here we will have a chance for nice long canters as the light fades and the shadows lengthen and we arrive at our destination, the intimate and authentic Estancia Tercera Barranca.

Typical of the estancias of the area, Estancia Tercera is a working sheep ranch situated in an enviable position on the Park borders offering fantastic views of the granite Towers and mountains of the Paine Massif. With land extending to 6,454 hectares it offers high quality accommodation close to Torres del Paine National Park in addition to its continuing work as a working Patagonian ranch. Sleeping just 14 guests in 7 rooms, the ranch house has a lovely intimate feel. There is a comfortable living area warmed by the welcoming log fire where you can read and relax before dinner which is served in the adjacent wooden quincho. All rooms have private bathroom. All meals included (excluding wine/ drinks).

Day 6 / Ride out to Laguna Azul around the lake and back to Tercera. Night Tercera.
Today's ride takes us west towards the peaks of Torres del Paine as we approach the stunning deep blue waters of Laguna Azul framed by the Towers themselves. We ride through native forests and grassy flower filled meadows as we follow the route round this beautiful lake with its stunning mountain backdrop. We then head south crossing the area known as Canadon Macho with its Vega Nandu normally inhabited by large breeding groups of both Guanaco and Rhea. This is a great area for spotting and photographing wildlife.

We then ride on to the south before dismounting and walking out to see the beautiful Salto Paine, a very pretty waterfall where glacial waters thunder over the rocks in their journey through the park.

We will ride past Estancia Laguna Amarga and the salt encrusted shores of Laguna Amarga (bitter lake) with its emerald green waters acting as a mirror as the surrounding mountains which magically reflect in its surface. Continue on a different route to our home for a second night at Estancia Tercera.

Night Estancia Tercera. All meals included (excluding wine/ drinks).

Day 7 / Drive out to the remote Baguales area close to the border with Argentina. Short ride at small, local estancia 3R into the surrounding mountains. Return to Estancia Tercera. Evening gaucho asado.

Today we will be hopping in the van for the drive literally to the end of the road known as Route 9 to a mystical area known as La Cumbre (the summit) at a height of 850m. Our destination is Estancia 3R situated in the heart of the Sierra Baguales, a wild mountain chain that extends from the north eastern limit of Torres del Paine penetrating the border with Argentina. The mountains were named ‘baguales’ (which translates to mean wild animal) after the wild horses that roam these barren lands. Its distinctive peaks of basalt are cathedral like in their forms. The area is also famous for its marine and land fossils which document the passing of geological eras.

Here we will meet our horses for the ride out into these grand peaks climbing up high towards the Tetas Las Chinas where with luck we will spot the famous wild horse herds of the Sierra Baguales. After a few hours riding, we will return to the estancia house for tea with our charming hosts before driving back to Estancia Tercera for a traditional gaucho asado (lamb cooked over an open fire) and some vino tinto before retiring to our comfortable beds.

All meals included (excluding wine/drinks).

Day 8 / Ride south across the pampas to Cerro Castillo and Hosteria el Pionero. Night Pionero.
Today after breakfast, riders will once again be saddling up for a full day's ride. This time, we will be heading south to the outpost town of Cerro Castillo. This is a beautiful open ride across grassy meadows and welcoming pampas. Riding south with the dramatic Paine mountains to our right enables us to fully appreciate the distances that the original pioneers and the estancieros that followed them encounter to this day.

There will also be opportunities for lots of long canters on your responsive and comfortable horses. With the wind in your hair and a smile on your face you will experience the sheer joy that is riding in Patagonia!

During late afternoon after a leisurely picnic lunch and an afternoon's riding we will see the welcome site of Hosteria el Pionero come into view. Surrounded by the customary layer of trees, the villa has the look and feel of an English country home and was built by European settlers to Tierra del Fuego at the beginning of the century. Once home to one of the most important and influential estancieros in the region it offers comfortable accommodation and an excellent restaurant offering a variety of typical local foods and international cuisine. The fireside bar is an excellent place to enjoy a pisco sour while discussing the adventures of the previous days. Comfortable en suite accommodation (some rooms with
fireplaces). Dinner in the comfortable restaurant. All meals included (excluding wine/drinks).

Day 9 / Ride south to the land belonging to Estancia Tres Pasos. Night Hosteria Tres Pasos.
After a breakfast of home baked bread and cakes we will be saddling up for our final day’s riding in this magnificent landscape. Our route takes us south across the wide open pampas towards Puerto Natales and Last Hope Sound. Crossing the lands belonging to some large estancias in this area we will enjoy our picnic lunch in a suitable spot before continuing south
onto the land belonging to Estancia Tres Pasos. Our final estancia night of the trip, Estancia Tres Pasos and its comfortable Hosteria of the same name is situated at the head of a magical flower filled valley. A working ranch this wooden, chalet-style property consists of a number of barns and outbuildings, pretty gardens and beautiful views down the valley. There will be a chance to unpack and relax a little before dinner in the excellent restaurant serving a variety of local dishes and local produce. All meals included (excluding wine/drinks).

Day 10 / Transfer to Punta Arenas via a visit to the Penguin Colony. Night Hotel Rey Don Felipe.
After a leisurely breakfast we will be joining our transfer vehicle for the drive back to Puerto Natales and on to the Magellanic penguin colony at Otway Sound where we will spend time observing the cute, burrowing penguins as they waddle from their burrows to the nearby ocean to fish.

Continue onto the comfortable, centrally located Hotel Rey Don Felipe for the night. Dinner at leisure in one of the city’s excellent restaurants.
Breakfast only included today.

Day 11 / Take taxi to the airport.

* Please note this itinerary is flexible and subject to change based on the weather or the trip guide's discretion.

11-Day Glaciers

This was the first long horseback expedition through the Torres del Paine National Park and there is still no other ride like it. Offering fast paced and challenging riding on fit Criollos in a truly magnificent setting it is hard to beat. This is a fast paced ride with some very long riding days. Fitness and experience are important. Not suitable for beginner riders.

Dates & Rates
11 days/10 nights  
2012 dates
Oct 20-30, Nov 5-15, Dec 6-16, Dec 20-30
2013 dates
Jan 16-26, Feb 9-19, March 14-24, March 28-April 7

Prices
2 pax: $4,601 per person (standard itinerary)
3 pax: $4,217 per person (standard itinerary)
4-6 pax: $3,823 per person (standard itinerary)
7 + pax: $3,823 per person (premium itinerary)
(please contact us for shorter trips!)

Single supplement: Add $415 USD* for those wanting guaranteed single accommodation 

Please ask Equitrekking Travel’s Preferred Travel Agent for more information.

* Prices are subject to change based on currency conversions.

A number of 4-day extensions can easily be tagged onto the end of a scheduled riding trip. They can include 4 day riding, hiking, kayaking, yoga/multisport, and whale watching. Please contact us for more information and for details about family departures.

Group size:
2 – 12 riders

Included:
7 full days riding 6 nights camping (based on twin share); 2 hotel nights and 2 refugio (camping) nights, transfers to and from Punta Arenas and while in Park; meals while camping (including wine with dinner), all equipment (except sleeping bags and mats which can be rented locally on request), English-speaking and local guides; baqueanos (wranglers) who care for the horses; pack horses for luggage; waterproof stuff-sacks for trip; use of saddle bags, entrance fees to park and penguin colony.

Not Included:
Flights; airport taxes; airport transfers and meals in Punta Arenas; lunch in Natales on Day 2 and Day 10; local gratuities ($60 recommended).

Extras:
Boat trip to face of Glacier.

Riding Ability:
Intermediate - Advanced. This is a fast paced ride with some very long riding days. Fitness and experience are important. Not suitable for beginner riders. Young riders need to be experienced and accompanied by an experienced and capable adult. Alternatively please ask about family itineraries for very young riders. Older riders are welcome but may be asked to complete a medical suitability questionnaire.

Description:
The Glacier Ride was the first long horseback ride in the Torres del Paine National Park and there is still no other ride like it. Offering fast paced and challenging riding on fit Criollos in a truly magnificent setting it is certainly no pony trek. This itinerary is suited to lovers of riding and the outdoors. In the company of guides and Chilean horsemen, you will ride into some remote areas where the only access is on foot or horse. Pack horses carry your luggage and often you will see no other humans. Please bear in mind that to experience this tranquility you need to forego some creature comforts. Some sites will not have any facilities. For those who prefer hot showers and a soft bed, the Estancia Ride would be more suitable.

Important Note:
During the trip, local water supplies from rivers, streams and lakes are used. Travelers should bring a water bottle to fill for their personal daily drinking supply. Water is always available at camp and there are further rivers and streams to replenish supplies en route. This water is clean and pure and is about as close to the source as is possible. There are no communities in the Park to contaminate the water supply and no tropical water bourne diseases in the area such as guiardia. If any traveler feels uncomfortable with this arrangement, they should bring iodine drops with them (and the appropriate taste inhibitors sold with them) or ask the guide to boil water for their water bottle during breakfast (where tap water isn’t available).

Accommodation: in tents with the exception of arrival and departure nights (and the first night on the premium itinerary). The campsites have been chosen with much care and they are all very different, very special and very beautiful. Some of them are wilderness sites with no ‘facilities’ at all. Some campsites have inside quinchos (barbeque areas). For those who prefer daily hot showers and a fluffy bed, the Estancia Ride would be more suitable!

Itinerary:

Day 1: Client's arrival in Punta Arenas in Patagonia. Taxi from airport to Hotel Rey Don Felipe, Armando Sanhueza 965, Punta Arenas, Chile. Telephone: +56 61 617500. Website: www.hotelreydonfelipe.com.

Meet leader in hotel lobby at 7.30 p.m. to be escorted to restaurant for dinner. Trip briefing and welcome dinner.

Day 2 Morning collection from the Hotel Don Rey Felipe to start the day's drive towards the penguin colony to see and photograph the cute burrowing Magellanic penguins. After plenty of time photographing the antics of these cute animals as they waddle from their burrows to the nearby ocean we will continue in our comfortable transfer vehicle across the Patagonia Steppe where you will have your first opportunity to see some of the unusual plant and animal life that exists in this area.

Standard Itinerary / After a short lunch stop in Puerto Natales we will continue on to our campsite situated within the Park borders close to a working estancia on the edges of the beautiful Laguna Verde. Chance to stroll down to the lakeside and enjoy the variety of bird life that exists in this area. Relax and enjoy the spectacular views of the horns across the lake whilst dinner is prepared. No showers. Drive approx. 6.5 hours including penguins. Breakfast and dinner included with wine while camping.

Premium Itinerary / Continuing past Puerto Natales for an hour or so we will arrive at a small puesto, we will meet our horses and the baqueanos from the estancia who will ride with us into our estancia. This short ride will allow us to become accustomed to the local style of riding and tack as we take in the spectacular views. Dominated by the high peaks of the Chacabuco mountain range, some of which are permanently covered in snow and ice and with views of Cerro Prat to the rear, this is a very special place and a real contrast to some of the scenery experienced later in the trip. After riding into the estancia, we will be shown our rooms where we can relax and unpack. Plenty of time to explore the waterfront where it is possible to fish for trout or just enjoy the panoramic views across the fjords before dinner. All meals included (excluding wine/drinks).

Day 3 Standard Itinerary / Today we will be meeting our horses and the colourful baqueanos who care for them. After assigning horses to riders, we will have a safety check and short familiarization with western riding before packing our saddle bags with cameras, waterproofs, and our picnic lunch and setting off around the shores of this pretty lake through ancient southern beech forests towards the Sierra del Toro.

After a couple of hours riding, we will make a steep descent of the Sierra del Toro to the pampas below. Lunch will be taken in the valley and we will have a chance to visit the Park Headquarters to look at their relief map of the park. Now used to our horses, we will continue with some faster riding across the pampas to the Serrano River where we will camp beside the emerald green waters of this beautiful river with its dramatic mountain views. Showers available. Inside dining in case of inclement weather. All meals included with while while camping.

Premium Itinerary / After breakfast we will be packing up and walking down to the quayside where we will be boarding a boat that will take us into the Bernardo O’Higgins National Park. Shared by the region of Magallanes and Aysen, this is the largest National Park in Chile and one of the five most expansive in the world (over 3 million hectares). With access only via the water, the mountains or the southern ice field itself it remains a remote and pristine corner of our planet. It also contains the third largest mass of ice on earth after Antarctica and Greenland so the climate is understandably extreme.

We will disembark our boat here and enjoy the stunning views which combine old growth forests of evergreen and deciduous southern beech, fire bushes, and cypresses - a stunning contrast to the snow capped peaks and glaciers in this area.

We will meet our horses before setting out on a beautiful trail through thick forests passing pristine rivers and streams in the shadow of the Chacabuco and Balmaceda range of mountains. A fairly slow ride today gives us the opportunity to find our riding stride while enjoying the dazzling scenery on our route into through this pristine wilderness to the stunning and remote Lago Brush and our wild campsite lakeside. Night camping with all meals provided (wine included).

Day 4 Standard Itinerary / After breakfast we will be meeting our horses and preparing for the fast pampas ride to Grey Lake. Our view will be dominated by the jagged, granite peaks of the Paine massif as we ride out along the Grey River to the largest glacier in the park, Grey Glacier. On reaching the trailhead we will tether our horses and walk out across the swinging footbridge through the forest to Grey Beach.

The view that greets us is memorable - the sandy shores of the beach form an almost surreal contrast to the blue of the floating icebergs that have calved off the nearby glacier. Grey Glacier protrudes off the southern ice field and is quite simply a wonder of nature. Measuring 28 km in length and covering a total surface area of 270 square km with its frozen walls of crystalline ice towering almost 35 metres high, it never ceases to impress.

After some time walking along the beach and enjoying our picnic lunch, we will walk back to our waiting horses for the exciting ride back to the Serrano River.

*Note for those who would like to get up closer to the face of this marvel of ice, we can arrange a trip out onto the lake on the Grey II boat. This is an optional excursion available at a cost of approximately US$80 per person.

Premium Itinerary / After packing up camp and loading the pack horses we will continue on our route north through virgin forests approaching the dazzling scenery of the Paine mountain range. Towards the end of the trail we will dismount to swim the horses across the glacial waters of the River Nutria, a fantastic site. We will board a small boat to cross before saddling up on the other side to continue our route into Torres del Paine riding out onto the wide open pampas upping the pace as we approach our campsite for the night beside the Serrano River.
Night Camping at the Serrano River. All meals included with wine while camping.

Day 5 Standard Itinerary / Today we will be enjoying some beautiful trails which cross the heart of the Park . Known as the 'up and over' our trail cuts through some incredibly
diverse scenery from verdant green valleys and beech forests to azure lakes and wide open plains. We will see magnificent condors hovering high above mountain peaks while down on the plains herds of guanaco scatter as we approach. We will be surprised at every turn of our path as we cross over 30 kilometres of this amazing Patagonia riding country dominated by the Paine Horns and Towers after which the park is named.

Finally, after a truly memorable ride we will arrive on the land belonging to Estancia Tercera and the remote puesto nestled in a small valley with beautiful views of the Towers and a very remote and charming Patagonian feel. Facilities include showers, bathrooms and indoor dining in case of bad weather. All meals included (with wine while camping).

Premium Itinerary / Ride out to Glacier and Lake Grey as above, return to campsite at the Serrano River.

Day 6 Standard Itinerary / After enjoying breakfast in our stunning location we will set off on an exciting and unique adventure into the hills and forests of the Sierra Contreras. Our destination is the pretty and rarely visited waterfall known as Cascada Zamora.

After a picnic lunch here we will ride out to a remote puesto mercado riding up high over the pampas with views off to the Las Chinas Valley with the Sierra Baguales in the distance. Return to our camp at puesto Tercera for night. Hot showers. Hours in the saddle: 4-5. All meals included.

Premium Itinerary / Ride the up and over route as above. Night Camping Laguna Azul.

Day 7 Standard and Premium Itinerary / After packing up camp and loading up the pack horses we will set off on our exciting ride towards the Torres and Lago Paine. After skirting Laguna Azul we will be heading north towards Laguna Stokes where a large natural vega or pasture exists and which attracts wild criollos from the surrounding hills to graze in the summer. With luck we may get to see these horses but please note the viewing is not guaranteed! There will be many excellent photo opportunities on this route as we pass through forests, pastures and the
lake where Lady Florence Dixie first camped having sighted the Towers.

Eventually we arrive at our remote campsite with beautiful mountain views, soft flower filled meadows and the mirror clear waters of Lago Paine close by. No showers. All meals included with wine while camping.

Day 8 Standard and Premium Itinerary / After breakfast, we will be riding out to Lake and Glacier Dickson. Dickson is one of the more remote and rarely visited glaciers in the Park due to its inaccessibility - in our opinion it is also one of the prettiest. Our rides takes us past the northerly peaks of the Paine chain where one of the peaks is topped by a black, craggy rock in the shape of a Tuhuelche Indian Face where the 'headband' is decorated with snowdrifts even in summer.

The trail then heads north passing ancient southern beech forests and scattered lakes before reaching our solitary perch and viewpoint above this beautiful lake and glacier. This will be our picnic spot for lunch - a truly memorable destination. In the afternoon we ride back to Lago Paine. No showers. Hours in the saddle: 6-7. All meals included.

Day 9 Standard Itinerary /After packing up camp we will be riding back via a different route to the stunning Laguna Azul where we will be pitching our tents for the last time on this trip. This is one of the prettiest campsites in the park with camping lakeside on the sandy beach or among the beech tress on the soft grassy ground. Fire pits and indoor dining in case of inclement weather. Hot showers (usually) and bathrooms. All meals included with wine while camping.

Premium Itinerary / After packing up camp we will be riding back via a different route past Laguna Azul to the beautiful, tranquil campsite at Puesto Tercera. Night camping with facilities (bathrooms, showers).

Day 10 Standard and Premium Itineraries / Pack up camp for our transfer back to Punta Arenas to arrive late afternoon. We will once again make a lunch stop in Puerto Natales and this will give clients an opportunity to purchase any souvenirs/books/postcards etc. Clients will be dropped off at the Hotel Rey Don Felipe in Punta Arenas at around 6p.m. Transfer time: 5 hours. Breakfast only included.

Day 11 Taxi to airport for onward travel. Breakfast included.
 

*Please note this itinerary is flexible and subject to change based on the weather or the trip guide's discretion.
 

10-Day Horse Drive

Similar to the Estancia Ride, this horseback ride now includes two days moving loose horses from their summer home to winter grazing – exciting and fast-paced riding in a spectacular 10-day trip. Accommodation is in estancias and beautifully situated lodges. It is a great end of season ride with beautifully empty trails in the spectacular surroundings of the Torres del Paine National Park.

Dates & Rates
March 29– April 7, 2013

2 pax: $5,379 per person
3 pax: $4,923 per person
4-5 pax: $4,280 per person
6+ pax: $3,891 per person

Single supplement: Add $467 USD* for all travelers wanting guaranteed single accommodation

* Prices are subject to change based on currency conversions.

A number of 4 day extensions can easily be tagged onto the end of a scheduled riding trip. They can include 4 day riding, hiking, kayaking, yoga/multisport, and whale watching. Please ask Equitrekking Travel Preferred Travel Agent for more information and for details about family departures.

Group size:
2 – 12 riders

Riding Ability:
Travelers should be comfortable riding at a fast pace - the horse moving day is fast and long. 

Accommodation: is in comfortable, authentic, cozy and welcoming estancias and lodges - all of which has been chosen for their beautiful location, great view and cultural appeal.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Client's arrival in Punta Arenas in Patagonia. Taxi from airport to Hotel Rey Don Felipe, Armando Sanhueza 965, Punta Arenas, Chile. Telephone: +56 61 617500. Website: www.hotelreydonfelipe.com.

Meet leader in hotel lobby at 7.30 p.m. to be escorted to restaurant for dinner. Trip briefing and welcome dinner.

Day 2: Today we are going to be starting our drive across the wide open pampas and land belonging to some of the huge estancias in this area as we head towards the Torres del Paine National Park. After a short lunch stop in Puerto Natales, where clients can choose from a variety of restaurants and cafes, we will continue our drive north. The road takes us alongside the waters of Last Hope Sound with the bobbing heads of the black necked swans to our first estancia for the night. Estancia Tres Pasos, now a comfortable hosteria is situated at the head of a magical flower filled valley. A working estancia the wooden, chalet-style property consists of a number of estancia buildings, pretty gardens and lovely views down the valley.

There will be a chance to unpack and relax a little before meeting our horses for an afternoon introductory ride in the vicinity of the estancia. Riders will get a chance to adjust to the style of riding and tack as we run through the paces and enjoy a relaxing afternoon’s ride. We will then return to the hotel for dinner in the lovely restaurant. Most of the food in this delightful family run establishment is home produced. Breakfast and dinner included (excluding wine/drinks). Hours in the saddle: 3-4.

Day 3: Today after breakfast, riders will once again be saddling up for a full day’s ride. This time, we will be heading north west to the outpost town of Cerro Castillo. This is a beautiful open ride across grassy meadows and welcoming pampas. Riding towards the dramatic mountain range of Torres del Paine enables us to fully benefit from the incredible mountain and lake views. We will also have some opportunities for our first long canters on our responsive and comfortable horses. During late afternoon after a leisurely picnic lunch and an afternoon’s riding we will see the welcome site of Hosteria el Pionero come into view.

Surrounded by the customary layer of trees, the villa has the look and feel of an English country home and was built by European settlers to Tierra del Fuego at the beginning of the century.
Once home to one of the most important and influential estancieros in the region it offers comfortable accommodation and an excellent restaurant offering a variety of typical local foods and international cuisine. The fireside bar is an excellent place to enjoy a pisco sour whilst meeting your new friends and discussing the adventures to come. Comfortable en suite accommodation (some rooms with fireplaces). Dinner in the comfortable restaurant. All meals included (excluding wine/drinks). Hours in the saddle: 6-7.

Day 4: After a breakfast of home baked bread and cakes served in the bright dining room, we will be saddling up for the long ride north east towards Estancia Tercera Barranca. Today is also the first day of moving horses where we will enjoy a unique experience of working with the local Chilean horsemen (baqueanos) in moving horses north to a remote estancia close to the border with Argentina.

This is a classic Patagonian ride with the soft, inviting pampas stretched out in front of us as we journey north towards the mountains of Torres del Paine and La Cumbre mountain range that makes up the natural barrier between Chile and Argentina. We will be crossing the land belonging to various local farmers making sure our charges do not wander off the trail. With luck we may be invited to join a local for tea or mate. After 5 or 6 hours riding with lunch taken in one of the many picnic spots en route, we will be riding onto the land belonging to Estancia Tercera Barranca. Our destination is the comfortable and cosy ranch house belonging to this working estancia where we will drive the horses into their coral before retiring to the authentic casa patronal with fabulous views of the Towers from its large west facing windows. Fire side living room/bar and traditional quincho (wooden dining room with outside BBQ area). En suite rooms. All meals included (excluding wine/drinks). Hours in the saddle: 5-7.

Day 5: After a filling and wholesome breakfast we will be going out to the coral to prepare for another day's adventure. Once again we will be saddling up and preparing between 40 and 60 horses to be moved to their winter grazing. With the help of the local cowboys (baqueanos), we will be driving them forward over golden pampas and steep walled valleys. Our journey north takes us across some glacial rivers on beautiful and remote mountain trails. Because of the speed of this ride, we should have the opportunity to change horses during the day. To the accompanying chorus of whistles and shouts from the local horsemen, we will be riding towards the beautiful and remote La Cumbre mountain range keeping an eye on the horses and rounding up strays and wanderers.

A hard day's ride but what a privilege! Watching loose horses canter across valleys or splash through rivers with the dramatic mountains behind is an incredible and unforgettable experience. After our long day's ride and a job well done we will be returning to our comfortable accommodation at Estancia Tercera. Night Estancia Tercera. Hours in the saddle: 4-5. Breakfast, packed lunch and dinner included (excluding wine/drinks).

Day 6: Today we will be resting after our long riding days enjoying the comfort of the estancia. We can choose to relax in the comfortable living room in front of the fire with a good book or take a walk into the surrounding hills close to the estancia. Alternatively just sit and chat with the estancia staff or enjoy the peaceful garden with its magnificent views of the Towers and look out for resident skunks, guanacos, condors, armadillos or even pumas that sometimes pay a visit. Breakfast, lunch, tea and dinner included (excluding wine/drinks). Night Estancia Tercera. No riding today.

Day 7: After breakfast and our rest we will be making our way out to the coral and saddling up for our beautiful day’s riding across the heart of the Park. Known as the 'up and over' our trail cuts through some incredibly diverse scenery from verdant green valleys and beech forests to azure lakes and wide open plains. We will see magnificent condors hovering high above mountain peaks while down on the plains herds of guanaco scatter as we approach.

We will be surprised at every turn of our path as we cross over 30 kilometres of this amazing Patagonia riding country dominated by the Paine Horns and Towers after which the park is named. Finally, after a truly memorable ride we will arrive at the emerald green, salmon stocked waters of the Serrano River. Night in the very comfortable Hotel Rio Serrano situated close to the river and with fabulous views of the Paine Massif. This area also offers some of the best sunrises in Patagonia, an incentive to set the alarm perhaps. Hours in the saddle: 7-8. All meals included (wine/drinks available at extra cost).

Day 8: After breakfast we will be meeting our horses and preparing for the fast pampas ride to Grey Lake. Our view will be dominated by the jagged, granite peaks of the Paine massif as we ride out along the Grey River to the largest glacier in the park, Grey Glacier. On reaching the trailhead we will tether our horses and walk out across the swinging footbridge through the forest to Grey Beach.

The view that greets us is memorable - the sandy shores of the beach form an almost surreal contrast to the blue of the floating icebergs that have calved off the nearby glacier. Grey Glacier protrudes off the southern ice field and is quite simply a wonder of nature. Measuring 28 km in length and covering a total surface area of 270 square km with its frozen walls of crystalline ice towering almost 35 metres high, it never ceases to impress. After some time walking along the beach and enjoying our picnic lunch, we will walk back to our waiting horses for the exciting ride back to our hotel at the Serrano River.

*Note for those who would like to get up closer to the face of this marvel of ice, we can arrange a trip out onto the lake on the Grey II boat. This is an optional excursion available at a cost of approximately US$80 per person.

Breakfast, packed lunch and dinner included (excluding wine/drinks). Hours in the saddle: approx 5 -6.

Day 9: Today after breakfast, we will once again be joining our horses and the baqueanos who have now become our friends for another beautiful ride. This time, we will be heading south east to the Mirador del Toro and the beautiful Laguna Verde.

The day starts with our final ride across the fabulous wide open pampas before crossing the much photographed Puente Weber and riding towards the Sierra del Toro. After stopping to tighten girths and check our tack, we will make a steep ascent of this mountain climbing high above the national park and surrounding areas. Eventually we will arrive at the dramatic and often very windy lookout (Mirador del Toro) with its incredible far reaching views of the lakes, mountains and glaciers below.

After some time photographing and enjoying the beautiful views, we will continue on through southern beech forests passing a myriad of pristine lakes and valleys as we approach the land belonging to Estancia Lazo. Arriving at around lunchtime, we will meet our transfer vehicle here and head out on the pretty road that skirts Lago Sarmiento towards Puerto Natales and on to Punta Arenas. Tonight we will be staying in the Hotel Rey Don Felipe. Dinner will be at leisure in town. Breakfast, packed lunch included. Hours in the saddle: 4-5.

Day 10: After breakfast in the hotel, take a taxi to the airport or continue with onward travel. Breakfast only.

*Please note this itinerary is flexible and subject to change based on the weather or the trip guide's discretion. Please note that after around mid March there are very few penguins in the area because they have migrated to Brazil. We will therefore NOT visit the colony on this trip.
 

Paine to Puelo Ride - NEW

This exciting combination ride takes you from the extreme glaciers and jagged peaks of the south to the glacial valleys, pristine rivers and vivid blue waterways of the Puelo Valley further north. Exciting riding, unique accommodations and expertly guided throughout.

Dates: On request for a minimum of two clients throughout the season from October to April. Contact us for more information and any confirmed departures.

Prices October 2012 to April 2013:
2 pax: $6,324 per person
3 pax: $5,717 per person
4-5 pax: $5,115 per person
6+ pax: $4,586 per person

*Single supplement: Add US$674 for all clients wanting guaranteed single accommodation. *Flights are NOT included. Trip starts in Punta Arenas and ends in Bariloche in Argentina.

Highlights:
*Hone your riding skills on this NEW 10 day combination ride
*Let your hair down with exciting canters through some of the best riding country in the world
*Experience the dazzling views and landscapes of both northern and southern Patagonia
*Enjoy Chilean hospitality at its finest - from the charming cuisine of your hostess on the island to gaucho cookouts in the south
* Ride through the Valdivian rainforest to pristine lakes and streams
*Watch the horses swim alongside your boat
*Sleep in your own remote island cabin
*Visit a towering Valley Glacier on horseback
*Take an exciting jet boat ride up river to the Argentine border
*Stroll around the colourful craft market in el Bolson, southern Argentina
*Drink fireside pisco sours in Estancia Tercera Barranca

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive into Punta Arenas before taking a private transfer to Puerto Natales via the Magellanic Penguin colony at Otway Sound for a chance to observe these fascinating burrowing penguins.

Continue to Hosteria El Pionero a comfortable small hotel reminiscent of a European villa with the look and feel of an English country home. Built by European settlers to Tierra del Fuego at the beginning of the century it was once home to one of the most important and influential estancieros in the region. Now a hosteria it offers comfortable accommodation with an excellent restaurant serving a variety of typical local foods and international cuisine.

The fireside bar is an excellent place to enjoy a pisco sour whilst meeting your new friends and discussing the adventures to come.

Comfortable en suite accommodation (some rooms with fire places). Welcome dinner included in the comfortable restaurant (wine/drinks available at extra cost) and briefing.

Day 2: After a breakfast of home baked bread and cakes served in the bright dining room, we will be meeting our horses before our safety briefing and introduction to western riding. After some practice in the vicinity of the estancia and a chance to adjust to the different tack and style of riding we will be heading north east towards the peaks of Paine and Estancia Tercera Barranca.

This is a classic Patagonian ride with the seemingly never ending pampas stretched out in front of us. Our journey takes us towards the spectacular and dramatic mountain ranges of Torres del Paine and La Cumbre that makes up the natural barrier between Chile and Argentina. We will be crossing the land belonging to various local farmers and with luck may be invited to join a local for tea or mate (pronounced matay). After five or six hours riding with lunch taken in one of the many picnic spots en route, we will be riding onto the land belonging to Estancia Tercera Barranca.

Our destination is the comfortable ranch house belonging to this working estancia. Comfortable and cosy accommodation in this authentic country house with fabulous views of the Towers from its large west facing windows. Fireside living room/bar and traditional quincho (wooden dining room with outside BBQ area). En suite rooms.
All meals included (wine/drinks available at extra cost).

Day 3: After a wholesome breakfast and packing up we will be starting our ride westwards towards the heart of the Park.

We will now be riding directly towards the Paine Massif mountain range so the views are dramatic and beautiful. Our trail skirts the southern edge of the mountains on a rarely trodden path as we pass azure and turquoise lakes with the huge granite mountain peaks standing behind.

After a picnic lunch taken in one of the pretty valleys we will continue west to the beautiful soft pampas beside the Serrano River. Here we will have a chance for a nice long canter as the light fades and the shadows lengthen and we arrive at our destination, the very comfortable Hotel Rio Serrano. Situated by the emerald green waters of the Serrano River with river and mountain views this is our base for the night. For early risers, this area has the best sunrises in all of Patagonia.

Night in hotel, all meals included (wine/drinks available at extra cost).

Day 4: After breakfast we will be meeting our horses and preparing for the fast pampas ride to Grey Lake. Our view will be dominated by the jagged, granite peaks of the Paine massif as we ride out along the Grey River to the largest glacier in the park, Grey Glacier. On reaching the trailhead we will tether our horses and walk out across the swinging footbridge through the forest to Grey Beach.

The view that greets us is memorable - the sandy shores of the beach form an almost surreal contrast to the blue of the floating icebergs that have calved off the nearby glacier. Grey Glacier protrudes off the southern ice field and is quite simply a wonder of nature. Measuring 28 km in length and covering a total surface area of 270 square km with its frozen walls of crystalline ice towering almost 35 metres high, it never ceases to impress.

After some time walking along the beach and enjoying our picnic lunch, we will walk back to our waiting horses for the exciting ride back to the park administration centre where we will meet our horses for the drive back to Puerto Natales (approximately 1 hour).

*Note for those who would like to get up closer to the face of this marvel of ice, we can arrange a trip out onto the lake on the Grey II boat. This is an optional excursion available at a cost of approximately US$80 per person.

Breakfast, packed lunch and dinner included (excluding wine/drinks).

Night in Puerto Natales, Hotel If or Hotel Weskar:
www.hotelifpatagonia.com
www.weskar.cl

Day 5: Transfer to Punta Arenas for the flight north to Puerto Montt. Transfer in from Puerto Montt airport to a cute B&B in the pretty lakeside town of Puerto Varas. Dinner at leisure.

Day 6: The trip will start at your hotel where you will meet your guide and driver. The van will be loaded for the three hour drive through the lush, green Valdivian forest along the Reloncaví estuary.

Arrive at Tagua - Tagua Lake. Time for delicious picnic lakeside before crossing the lake. Sail to the other side before driving for another hour or so. At the end of the road we will meet the baqueanos and the criollo horses that will accompany us for the next few days. We will pack the horses and go!

After a few hours riding we will arrive at our base for the night at Lago Verde. Breakfast, lunch, tea and dinner included. Timing: 4/5hrs by car and approximately 2-1⁄2 hrs horseback riding.

Day 7: After breakfast we will take just a short boat trip in order to start our horse riding adventure. Plenty of opportunity to enjoy this fantastic landscape and cross the river just as the locals do: on a public boat while the horses swim alongside. Quite a spectacle for those that have never seen it so have your camera at the ready.

After we cross the horses over the river we will ride into the Ventisqueros valley for another river crossing but this time on horse back. Stop for lunch and some time to relax. Afternoon ride to the remote and beautifully located Isla Bandurrias where you will be welcomed by your charming host and shown to your accommodation in the very pretty wood heated lakeside cabin.

A very welcome tea with home made cakes will greet you and there will be time to relax and enjoy the cabin and its magnificent island location. Breakfast, lunch, tea and dinner included. Timing: 5 hrs horseback riding.

Day 8: Breakfast and saddle up. This morning we will enjoy 2 hours riding where we will visit the Blue Lake "Lago Azul" with its crystal clear waters and abundant fish life. The majestic peaks and stunning landscapes will not escape your attention! Picnic and a chance to relax on the shores of the lake.

After lunch our ride follows some steep passes into the forest as we skirt the mountains taking us to the southern part of this lake. Passing through the typical cold
jungle, Valdivian-type rainforest with its ancient Alerce trees (Fitzroya Cupresoide) as well as other local "giants" such as the "Coihue" and "Arrayanes" (the cold tree)
After leaving the horses in a safe place we will return to the Island to enjoy the rest of the afternoon there. Breakfast, lunch, tea and dinner included. Timing: 6hrs horseback riding.

Day 9: After breakfast, we say goodbye to our hostess and depart to the other shore. We will sail back where the 'Huasos' and the horses spent the night. Today we will ride for just half the day. Having passports at the ready we will reach the Mountain Police Station, "Retén de Carabineros". This leads to the border crossing, close to the edge of the Puelo River, from where there are great views of the Inferior Lake.

Then we will cross Lago Puelo by boat into the National park after going though the Argentine border formalities. A minibus will be waiting to take us to El Bolsón. Lunch at a great local restaurant and time to buy some souvenirs or explore the area. Travel by minibus to San Carlos de Bariloche where the trip will end with a night in a B&B in town.
If you need to catch a flight today we can drop you off at the airport.

Timing: 4 hours horseback riding 30 minutes sail on motorboat. Private bus transfer to the town of El Bolsón, 20 minutes, and two more hours to the town of San Carlos de Bariloche. Breakfast, lunch included.

Day 10: Trip ends. Taxi to airport or bus station for onward travel. Breakfast only.

* Please note this itinerary is flexible and subject to change based on the weather or the trip guide's discretion.
 

Related Travel Articles

Traveler Reviews

“Amazing chef to produce my birthday cake in a camp site! I had a fantastic trip, never to be forgotten I feel so very lucky to have had this opportunity, fantastic guide, company, gauchos, only wish I could keep the horse?”

--Katie Lovengrove, March 2009

“More than I ever imagined. I had big expectations and they were succeeded, the horses by far exceeded my expectations, the challenges were so great and the gauchos work very well as a team …Wow! I will tell everyone about this great adventure”

--Caron Miller, Dec 2009

“I think it was extraordinary. The attention and every detail were amazing. Your crew- Chechin, Javier, Panchi and Megan really added so much pleasure, what wonderful people; I will miss all of you. Thank you…Muchas Gracias”

--Lois Masterson, Jan 2010

“This was a wonderful trip, the entire team made everything vey enjoyable and the horses were great. I will recommend this trip … don’t expect to lose any weight on it hohoho…”

--Sido Allegri, March 2010

“From start to finish, our trip truly felt blessed.  We saw condors on the way to the penguin colony. Not just high in the sky. These condors swooped down and were surfing the wind right in front and to the side of our van, as if welcoming us and leading the way.  Later in the trip, we saw a condor perched high on a hill with his wings outstretched. Chichin said he was drying his feathers.

--Amy Maloney, February 2010.

I have been able to prove that the Criollo horse is worthy of the reputation he has always held among the few that really know him, namely that of being second to none for continuous hard work under any conditions.

--A F Tschiffely wrote after riding from Argentina to Washington in the 1930s (A F Tschiffely, Tschiffely's Ride)

Another Test

Special Departures Test

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Reading List

In Patagonia by Bruce Chatwin

A masterpiece of travel, history and adventure. This award-winning book captures the spirit of the land, history, wildlife and people of Patagonia. There's no travel writer as engaging, insightful and just plain wonderful as Bruce Chatwin.

Fodor's Chile, Including Argentine Patagonia by Adam Taplin (Editor)

An excellent all-around practical guide to the attractions, cultures and natural history of Chile.

Trekking in the Patagonian Andes (Paperback) by Carolyn McCarthy

This convenient guide features trail maps and route descriptions of walks throughout Patagonia, including a long sections on Torres del Paine in Chile and Glacier National Park in Argentina. With detailed practical information, color photography, 31 maps and good background on preparing for your trek. Third edition.

Equitrekking Coffee Table Companion Book & DVD

Equitrekking Travel Adventures on Horseback by Darley Newman with Photographs by Chip Ward available at Amazon.com
This companion to the PBS TV series, Equitrekking, proves that the world's most beautiful views are often best seen from atop a horse. This gorgeous book features dozens of scenic rides in the U.S. and around the globe. Denver Post review: For horse folk and dreamers, as well as fans of the show, it's a beautiful trip through stunning equestrian-friendly possibilities.



Equitrekking DVD's featuring Emmy winning PBS episodes, available in the Shop section of Equitrekking.com 

Get off the beaten path to see some of the world's most beautiful horses and classic riding destinations with host and equestrian travel expert Darley Newman with Emmy Award-winning Equitrekking, the horseback riding travel series on PBS. 

Season One: Vermont, the Carolinas, Georgia Coast, Wyoming, Colorado and Spain.

Season Two: Iceland, Coastal Ireland, Hawaii's Big Island, Irish Countryside, Maui, Virginia Hunt Country and California Wine Country.

Season Three: Arizona, Belize, Costa Rica, Kentucky, Quebec, Texas and Utah.

Season Four: Southern Spain, Alaska, Central Turkey, Quebec City and Beyond, Scotland and Wales.

    

Good Books for Horse Lovers and Equestrians

Animals in Translation: Using the Mysteries of Autism to Decode Animal Behavior (Paperback) by Temple Grandin
Philosophers and scientists have long wondered what goes on in the minds of animals, and this fascinating study gives a wealth of illuminating insights into that mystery. ---Publishers Weekly

The Horse: A Miscellany of Equine Knowledge (Hardcover) by Julie Whitaker with Ian Whitelaw
The Horse is an informative gallop through everything to do with the horse:  evolution, history, biology, breeds, behavior, training, competition, health, and care—all gathered into an accessible gallery of solid information, essential facts, and fascinating trivia.                                                           

Hunter Seat Equitation (Hardcover) by George H. Morris
A classic by a world-renowned teacher and master equestrian--the definitive work on the art of teaching and riding the hunter seat, now updated to include refinements in Morris's insightful program of riding instruction.

The New Encyclopedia of the Horse (Hardcover) by Elwyn Hartley Edwards
Chronicling the history of the horse, this guide encompasses the early domestication of the horse, classical riding styles, as well as a survey of the great stud farms and current international sporting events.